nt (and, some add Republican). As William E Pannell writes in My Friend the Enemy ‘this conservative brand of Christianity perpetuates the myth of white supremacy" (Ellison 58).One of the greatest stumbling blocks to the gospel can be the struggle associated with race. Both historical accounts and contemporary research data give a sobering picture of the Christian community’s mirroring - and at times leading - American racial prejudice (Ellison 51). One of the first steps in reaching the city for Christ is a time of racial reconciliation and healing. Those of all creed and color must be able to stand together. 1 John 2:10 says that "He that loveth his brother abideth in the light, and there is none occasion of stumbling in him." There is one final paradigm that shapes urban culture as a whole. Although this paradigm is the youngest in the series it can, at times, have the loudest voice. It touches not some or even most but all of those in urban and non-urban areas. The paradigm is that of the media portrayal of the urban lifestyle. On any given night, one can turn on the television and, if all that one sees is taken to be true, learn that all those living in urban areas and either drug dealers or drug users. You will find out that most of the children do not have fathers and the one who do are abused by them. You will find out everyone is promiscuous and no good can be found within the city limits. It is no wonder so many people buy into this view, including many of those living in the urban areas. Although the city can be rough, it is dangerous to make it sound even worse than it really is. There is hope for the city and those within its limits. The urban dweller has enough to face without the bombarding of negative stereotypes that often turn into self-fulfilling prophecies. Benjamin Tonna say’s that "The process of secularization takes place in the city; in fact urbanization and secularization go han...
